- 1the length of time that something lasts or is able to continue I worked with him over a span of six years. The project must be completed within a specific time span. Small children have a short attention span. a study of the entire span of Arab history see lifespan
- 2span (of something) a range or variety of something Managers have a wide span of control. These forests cover a broad span of latitudes.
- 3the part of a bridge or an arch between one vertical support and another The bridge crosses the river in a single span.
- 4the width of something from one side to the other The kite has a span of 1 yard. see wingspan
Check pronunciation: span